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Source: Aftenposten English Web Desk
Source: Aftenposten English Web Desk
Norwegian mediators were involved in negotiations that prompted the Basque separatist organization ETA to announce a permanent ceasefire this week.
Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) reported on national radio Friday that representatives for both the Spanish government and the ETA met secretly in Oslo last fall.
Norwegian officials helped arrange the meeting and acted as hosts for the secret talks, which reportedly lasted a week.
The ETA announced Wednesday that it will give up its 40-year armed struggle to separate the Basque region of northern Spain from the rest of the country. Its fight with the Spanish authorities has led to numerous bombings and other violence.
Its permanent ceasefire was to take effect today, after the Spanish government also made concessions. The ceasefire is viewed as the first major step toward peace with the Spanish government.
Norway has made major efforts to act as peace brokers in conflicts all over the world, from the Middle East to Sri Lanka and Indonesia.